Reassessing the role of the appropriate adult

Abstract

This article examines the nature of the appropriate adult's role in relation to police interviews carried out under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, and its associated Code of Practice. This is discussed in the context of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, which ends suspects' right to silence without the possibility of guilt being inferred, and the failure of the new April 1995 Codes of Practice to provide any guidance on this matter. It is argued that this measure considerably disadvantages the vulnerable groups the role was created to protect. Proposals for new arrangements for the provision, training and preparation of appropriate adults are presented.